Monthly Archives: November 2015

Happy Friday, folks! Who is as thrilled for the holidays as I? Aside from the horrendous traffic, It is my absolute favorite time. The overflow of desserts and treats, family meals, Friendsgiving, the parties, the sparkle. It is a magical time of year. As you all know, I pin quite a bit of recipes with every intention of trying them, but unfortunately, that usually does not happen. I rounded up a list of my must-try recipes for the beloved holidays, and fingers crossed I get to them all. read more

I am super excited to finally share my personal style with you folks – and also very nervous. I have been reluctant to post style photos, but I finally caved. For years I have received compliments on my pairings, from friends and strangers alike, urging me to show it off in photographic form. However, a part of me has always felt like being your “own model”, so to speak, is a bit self-important, narcissistic, and not me at all. Do not misunderstand, I love style bloggers and follow a few I really like and find inspiring. It just was never ME.

But I recently changed my tune, and decided to get out of my comfort zone and have a little fun here at MONARCH. My goal for showcasing my personal style is to inspire and help my readers create their own simple, beautiful and chic looks. read more

Not too long ago I read an article on one of my favorite lifestyle blogs, Zen Habits, that inspired me to do some self-reflection. The blogger gushes about his mother’s post-visit magic–leaving him and his family love struck, and with new hobbies, passions and better versions of themselves. I asked myself the question, “Am I making others’ lives better?” Now, I don’t mean in the sense of philanthropy and giving back. I am coming from the point of view, of my walking around, everyday life. The daily little things.read more